I met Jim Beckman on my first day at Writing Class. He was half way through Amour et Vengeance, his World War II/French Resistance novel. Over the next few weeks, I learned he graduated from Yale with a degree in engineering. Built a construction business from the ground up. Created art. Sculptures and things. But. more importantly, I found that I liked him. Every week, he walked in to class smiling, happy with the world and full of stories. But, his face lit up the brightest, when he talked about his beloved Marlene.
Marlene, his wife of 29 years.
I watched and listened, amused at first. And then, as time went on, I became impressed that one man could love one woman so much… so long.
I’ve known Jim and Marlene for five years now.
I find comfort in their great love. And hope.
Jim Beckman is amazing. As is his adored Marlene.
A true Renaissance Man.
The Pelaton. Jim’s sculpture. Donated to the City of Fort Worth
